US20190000700A1 - Hospital bed with inflatable bladders and cooling channels and related methods - Google Patents
Hospital bed with inflatable bladders and cooling channels and related methods Download PDFInfo
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- US20190000700A1 US20190000700A1 US16/023,319 US201816023319A US2019000700A1 US 20190000700 A1 US20190000700 A1 US 20190000700A1 US 201816023319 A US201816023319 A US 201816023319A US 2019000700 A1 US2019000700 A1 US 2019000700A1
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- hospital bed
- layer
- base foam
- foam layer
- major surface
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G7/00—Beds specially adapted for nursing; Devices for lifting patients or disabled persons
- A61G7/002—Beds specially adapted for nursing; Devices for lifting patients or disabled persons having adjustable mattress frame
- A61G7/015—Beds specially adapted for nursing; Devices for lifting patients or disabled persons having adjustable mattress frame divided into different adjustable sections, e.g. for Gatch position
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G7/00—Beds specially adapted for nursing; Devices for lifting patients or disabled persons
- A61G7/05—Parts, details or accessories of beds
- A61G7/057—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor
- A61G7/05769—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor with inflatable chambers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C21/00—Attachments for beds, e.g. sheet holders, bed-cover holders; Ventilating, cooling or heating means in connection with bedsteads or mattresses
- A47C21/04—Devices for ventilating, cooling or heating
- A47C21/042—Devices for ventilating, cooling or heating for ventilating or cooling
- A47C21/044—Devices for ventilating, cooling or heating for ventilating or cooling with active means, e.g. by using air blowers or liquid pumps
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/08—Fluid mattresses or cushions
- A47C27/081—Fluid mattresses or cushions of pneumatic type
- A47C27/083—Fluid mattresses or cushions of pneumatic type with pressure control, e.g. with pressure sensors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/08—Fluid mattresses or cushions
- A47C27/088—Fluid mattresses or cushions incorporating elastic bodies, e.g. foam
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G7/00—Beds specially adapted for nursing; Devices for lifting patients or disabled persons
- A61G7/05—Parts, details or accessories of beds
- A61G7/057—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor
- A61G7/05769—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor with inflatable chambers
- A61G7/05776—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor with inflatable chambers with at least two groups of alternately inflated chambers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G7/00—Beds specially adapted for nursing; Devices for lifting patients or disabled persons
- A61G7/05—Parts, details or accessories of beds
- A61G7/057—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor
- A61G7/05784—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor with ventilating means, e.g. mattress or cushion with ventilating holes or ventilators
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G2203/00—General characteristics of devices
- A61G2203/70—General characteristics of devices with special adaptations, e.g. for safety or comfort
- A61G2203/74—General characteristics of devices with special adaptations, e.g. for safety or comfort for anti-shear when adjusting furniture
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G2210/00—Devices for specific treatment or diagnosis
- A61G2210/70—Devices for specific treatment or diagnosis for cooling
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to the field of hospital equipment, and, more particularly, to a hospital bed and related methods.
- a modern hospital is a complex specialized service provider. Given the nature of the service being provided, the typical modern hospital is stocked with a multitude of medical devices. Although many of these medical devices were developed in the last 50 years, for example, the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, there are some medical devices that have been mainstays in hospitals for well over a century. One such long lived medical device is the hospital bed.
- MRI magnetic resonance imaging
- hospital beds were largely identical to typical beds, but in the early 1800s, early approaches added adjustable side rails to the beds. Subsequently, wheels were added to the hospital bed to permit easy movement for bedridden patients. In the mid-1900s, the modern three-segment hospital bed became available. This hospital bed was motorized and permitted adjustment of the foot section, midsection, and head section of the bed. Additional features added to hospital beds include bed exit alarms, and a “CPR” mode for administration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
- CPR cardiopulmonary resuscitation
- hospital bed mattress also known as a therapeutic mattress or medical mattress.
- the hospital bed mattress is designed to accommodate the person lying on it and to be able to move with the head, foot and height adjustments of which hospital beds are capable, i.e. it needs to be flexible.
- Another feature in hospital bed mattresses is bed sore prevention.
- One approach to this feature is to provide a plurality of air bladders within the hospital bed mattress, which are activated to change pressure points on a patient's skin.
- a hospital bed may include a support structure, a controller, a pressure source coupled to the controller, and a hospital bed mattress carried by the support structure.
- the hospital bed mattress is carried by the support structure and has first and second ends, and first and second sides extending between the first and second ends.
- the hospital bed mattress may comprise a base foam layer, and a plurality of transverse bladder pairs extending over the base foam layer and being coupled to the pressure source.
- the plurality of transverse bladder pairs may extend between the first and second sides and may be configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential and lateral pressure differential.
- the hospital bed mattress may comprise a multi-layer removable encasement surrounding the base foam layer and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs.
- the base foam layer may comprise opposing first and second ends, the first end to receive a head of a patient, the second end to receive feet of the patient.
- the base foam layer may include an upper major surface and a lower major surface opposing the upper major surface.
- the upper major surface may comprise a plurality of upper ribs, and a plurality of upper slots.
- the lower major surface may comprise a plurality of lower ribs, and a plurality of lower slots.
- the plurality of lower ribs may be vertically aligned with the plurality of upper slots, and the plurality of lower slots may be vertically aligned with the plurality of upper ribs.
- the multi-layer removable encasement may include a top coating layer, a spacer layer under the top coating layer, an elastane layer under the spacer layer, and a breathable fabric layer under the elastane layer.
- the multi-layer removable encasement may comprise a plurality of valves fluidly coupled to the pressure source, and each valve of the plurality of valves may be configured to open when a patient imparts pressure thereon.
- each transverse bladder pair of the plurality of transverse bladder pairs may comprise first and second overlapping bladders.
- Each of the first and second overlapping bladders may have a triangle-shape.
- the hospital bed may also further comprise a plurality of handles extending outward from the first and second sides of the hospital bed mattress.
- the base foam layer may comprise a rigid foam.
- the method comprises providing a support structure, coupling a pressure source to a controller, and positioning a hospital bed mattress to be carried by the support structure and having first and second ends, and first and second sides extending between the first and second ends.
- the hospital bed mattress may include a base foam layer, and a plurality of transverse bladder pairs extending over the base foam layer and being coupled to the pressure source.
- the plurality of transverse bladder pairs may extend between the first and second sides and configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential and lateral pressure differential.
- the hospital bed mattress may include a multi-layer removable encasement surrounding the base foam layer and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a hospital bed, according to the present disclosure.
- FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the hospital bed along a transverse sectional line, according to the present disclosure.
- FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view of another embodiment of the hospital bed, according to the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams of an example embodiment of the support structure of hospital bed, according to the present disclosure.
- FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of another example embodiment of the support structure of hospital bed, according to the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 5B and 5C are enlarged portions of the support structure of hospital bed from FIG. 5A .
- FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of hospital bed mattress from the hospital bed, according to the present disclosure.
- FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of another example embodiment of the hospital bed, according to the present disclosure.
- FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a transverse bladder pair from the hospital bed of FIG. 7 .
- the hospital bed 10 illustratively includes a support structure 11 .
- the support structure 11 illustratively includes a base portion 12 , and a plurality of wheels 13 a - 13 b coupled to the base portion.
- the support structure 11 may adjust positions of the head section, the midsection, and the foot section of the base portion 12 .
- the support structure 11 may adjust the height of the base portion 12 .
- the hospital bed 10 illustratively includes a controller 19 , a pressure source 20 (e.g. air compressor device) coupled to the controller, and a coolant pump 18 coupled to the controller.
- a pressure source 20 e.g. air compressor device
- the controller 19 may comprise logic circuitry configured to control the pressure source 20 and the coolant pump 18 .
- the hospital bed 10 includes a control panel (not shown) coupled to the controller 19 and configured to permit user selected activity of the pressure source 20 and the coolant pump 18 .
- the control panel may include a plurality of switches for manipulating the hospital bed 10 .
- the hospital bed 10 may also include a wireless transceiver (not shown, e.g. WiFi (IEEE 802.11 variant), Bluetooth, ZigBee (IEEE 802.15.4)) coupled to the controller 19 and configured to permit remote control and/or monitoring of the hospital bed 10 .
- the hospital bed 10 illustratively includes a hospital bed mattress 14 carried by the support structure 11 and having first and second ends 28 , 29 , and first and second sides 30 , 31 extending between the first and second ends.
- the hospital bed mattress 14 is configured to receive a patient 21 on an upper surface thereof.
- the hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f coupled to the pressure source 20 and extending between the first and second ends 28 , 29 and configured to provide lateral pressure differential.
- the hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a base foam layer 15 carrying the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f .
- the base foam layer 15 may include a rigid foam.
- the hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a plurality of transverse bladders 23 a - 23 c coupled to the pressure source 20 and extending between the first and second sides 30 , 31 .
- the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a - 23 c is configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential.
- the hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a first medial layer 16 carrying the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a - 23 c .
- the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a - 23 c and the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f are overlapping.
- the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f and the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a - 23 c are controlled via the controller 19 to prevent bed sore incidence in the patient 21 and to aid with movement of the patient for repositioning and removal from the hospital bed mattress 14 .
- the hospital bed mattress 14 includes a plurality of tubes (not shown) coupled between the pressure source 20 , and the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f and the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a - 23 c.
- the controller 19 is configured to divide the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f into a plurality of sections, and the controller is configured to control each section individually and separately from other sections. Each section may comprise one or more individual bladders. Also, the controller 19 is configured to divide the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a - 23 c into a plurality of sections, and the controller is configured to control each section individually and separately from other sections.
- the controller 19 may be configured to selectively activate sections of the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f and sections of the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a - 23 c to provide alternating pressure therapy to the patient 21 .
- each transverse bladder 23 a - 23 c may comprise accordion bellows configured to extend vertically between first and second major surfaces of the hospital bed mattress 14 .
- each transverse bladder 23 a - 23 c comprises a set of accordion bellows (i.e. each section here comprises a single accordion bellows) being aligned and extending between the first and second sides 30 , 31 of the hospital bed mattress 14 .
- These embodiments more readily impart longitudinal pressure differential to the patient 21 .
- controller 19 is configured to selectively control inflation and deflation of each accordion bellows, and to coordinate deflation of respective accordion bellows above longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f being inflated. This feature insures that the longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f being inflated do not impart too much lateral pressure differential on the patient 21 .
- the hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a plurality of channels 24 a - 24 d coupled to the coolant pump 18 .
- the plurality of channels 24 a - 24 d is adjacent an upper surface of the hospital bed mattress 14 and configured to circulate a coolant fluid.
- the hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a convoluted foam layer 17 carrying the plurality of channels 24 a - 24 d.
- each channel 24 a - 24 d illustratively includes a rectangle-shaped tube (i.e. a cross-sectional shape).
- the plurality of channels 24 a - 24 d may have other shapes, such as a circle-shaped tube, or a square-shaped tube.
- the plurality of channels 24 a - 24 d may provide for a cooling feature for the patient 21 .
- the thermal energy from the patient 21 is transferred to the coolant fluid and exited the hospital bed mattress 14 .
- the coolant pump 18 is configured to recirculate the coolant fluid through the plurality of channels 24 a - 24 d , and to exhaust thermal energy removed from the patient 21 .
- the coolant pump 18 may include an active refrigeration element to further reduce the temperature of the coolant fluid as it recirculates.
- the coolant fluid may comprise at least one of air and water.
- the coolant fluid comprises air
- the coolant pump 18 may comprise an air pump, which may be integrated with or separate from (as in the illustrated embodiment) the pressure source 20 .
- the coolant pump 18 may be coupled to the plurality of channels 24 a - 24 d via a plurality of tubes (not shown).
- the hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes first and second rails 32 a - 32 b configured to retain the patient 21 .
- the first and second rails 32 a - 32 b may prevent accidental falls.
- the firm first and second rails 32 a - 32 b as part of the design of the foam crib will assist with ingress and egress, and will reduce the falls that can occur with air only surfaces as patients are sitting on the side of the bed for therapy intervention or in preparation for ingress and egress.
- the method may include providing a support structure 11 , coupling a pressure source 20 to a controller 19 , and positioning a hospital bed mattress 14 to be carried by the support structure.
- the hospital bed mattress may have first and second ends 28 , 29 , and first and second sides 30 , 31 extending between the first and second ends.
- the hospital bed mattress 14 may comprise a plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a - 22 f coupled to the pressure source 20 and extending between the first and second ends 28 , 29 and configured to provide lateral pressure differential, a plurality of transverse bladders 23 a - 23 c coupled to the pressure source and extending between the first and second sides 30 , 31 and configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential, and a plurality of channels 24 a - 24 d adjacent an upper surface of the hospital bed mattress 14 and configured to circulate a coolant fluid.
- this embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this hospital bed 110 illustratively includes a plurality of handles 126 a - 126 b extending outward from the first and second sides 130 , 131 of the hospital bed mattress 114 .
- the plurality of handles 126 a - 126 b is mounted onto the base foam layer 115 , which is rigid in this embodiment.
- the plurality of handles 126 a - 126 b is configured to permit emergency evacuation of the patient, i.e. carrying the patient out on the hospital bed mattress 114 separated from the support structure.
- the hospital bed 110 illustratively includes a cover layer 125 , and a second medial layer 127 under the convoluted foam layer 117 .
- the cover layer 125 comprises material configured to accommodate stretching, heat wicking, low friction, and low shear risk.
- FIGS. 4A-4B another embodiment of the hospital bed 210 is now described.
- those elements already discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1-3 are incremented by 200 and most require no further discussion herein.
- the support structure 211 illustratively includes a plurality of pressure interjection ports 244 a - 244 h .
- Each of the plurality of pressure interjection ports 244 a - 244 h is individually fluidly coupled to the pressure source.
- Each of the plurality of pressure interjection ports 244 a - 244 h illustratively includes a cutout 245 comprising a short slit configured to permit coupling to the pressure source.
- the second end 329 of the base foam layer 315 illustratively includes a decline, and receives the feet of the patient.
- the first end 328 is flat and receives the head of the patient.
- the heels are a common site for bed sore incidence. Because of the thin layers of tissue, underlying bone prominence, limited blood supply and anatomical design.
- the decline in the second end may provide an increased load on the calve of the leg so that the decreased load of pressure on the heels may be reduced, thereby reducing incidence of bed sores.
- the decline is at an angle of 4.1° (illustrative example and can vary ⁇ 2°) with respect to a longitudinal axis of the base foam layer 315 , and the internal angle ⁇ of 94.1° (illustrative example and can vary ⁇ 2°).
- the base foam layer 315 illustratively includes an upper surface, and an opposing lower surface.
- the upper surface illustratively includes a section 338 comprising a plurality of ribs.
- the base foam layer 315 provides a foam “crib” that provides supportive assistance but allows flexibility to align therapy with the function of the supporting frame. This may reduce the risk of injury from entrapment or ejection as the surface increases in distance from the protective rails of the supporting frame.
- the lower surface illustratively includes a section 339 comprising a plurality of ribs 341 a - 341 g .
- Adjacent ribs are divided by a valley delineated by straight opposing sides, terminating at curved end with an angle ⁇ between 15°-45° (illustrative example is 20°) and a depth of 1.75-2.25 inches (i.e. about 15-30% of the depth of the base foam layer 315 ).
- the section 338 on the upper surface is similarly constituted.
- the curved end may have a radius of 0.20-0.30 inches.
- Gatching on the bottom of the foam rail surface may support the stability for seat assist (when the bed frame is in the seat assist position), but allow for the flexibility in moving with the frame as needed for the flex of the head of bed adjustment, as well as a contoured profiling frame.
- the lower surface illustratively includes a section 340 comprising a plurality of slots 342 a - 342 f .
- Each of the plurality of slots 342 a - 342 f extends transversely between sides of the base foam layer 315 , and extends from the lower surface at a substantially perpendicular angle (i.e. ⁇ 15° of 90°).
- Each of the plurality of slots 342 a - 342 f terminates with a circular recess 343 (e.g. having a radius between 0.15 and 0.3 inches) within the base foam layer 315 , and extends vertically between 1.50 and 2.00 inches (i.e. about 15-25% of the depth of the base foam layer 315 ).
- the upper surface illustratively includes a section 346 comprising a plurality of slots, which is similarly constituted to the section 340 on the lower surface.
- FIG. 6 another embodiment of the hospital bed mattress 414 is now described.
- the uppermost portion of hospital bed mattress 414 illustratively includes (working from the top layer in a downward direction) a top coating layer 433 of breathable material (as available from the Dartex division of Trelleborg Industri AB of Trelleborg, Sweden), a foam or spacer layer 434 of fabric, a lycra (i.e.
- elastane layer 435 a valve layer 437 (only 1 depicted for illustrative clarity), and a breathable waterproof fabric layer 436 with cutouts 445 (only 1 depicted for illustrative clarity) for the pressure interjection ports.
- the uppermost portion of hospital bed mattress 414 comprises a plurality of valve layers and cutouts 445 .
- Each of the plurality of valve layers 437 is attached to the lycra layer 435 , for example, via tacking, stitching or adhesive material.
- the valve layer 437 is only partial, and comprises a plurality of square shaped cutouts (e.g. 3 inch ⁇ 3 inch square) positioned over valves.
- each of the cutouts 445 may comprise a short slit, i.e. approximately 1.25 inches long, and terminated with rip stop stitching.
- the valve layer 437 may comprise a low friction material, such as, for example, GlideWear dual layer low friction material, as available from Tamarack Habilitation Technologies, Inc. of St. Paul, Minn.
- FIGS. 7-8 another embodiment of the hospital bed 510 is now described.
- this embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this hospital bed 510 illustratively does not include the coolant pump, the plurality of longitudinal bladders, the medial base layer, nor the convoluted foam layer of the embodiments noted above. Nevertheless, it should be appreciated that other embodiments could include these features, and that any of the above described features from the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6 could be added to the embodiment of FIGS. 7-8 .
- the hospital bed 510 illustratively includes a support structure 511 , a controller 519 , a pressure source 520 coupled to the controller, and a hospital bed mattress 514 carried by the support structure.
- the hospital bed mattress 514 is carried by the support structure 511 .
- the hospital bed mattress 514 illustratively includes first and second ends, and first and second sides extending between the first and second ends.
- the hospital bed mattress 514 illustratively includes a base foam layer 515 , and a plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a - 551 w extending over the base foam layer and being coupled (e.g. via hoses) to the pressure source 520 .
- the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a - 551 w illustratively extends between the first and second sides and is configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential and lateral pressure differential.
- the hospital bed mattress 514 illustratively includes a multi-layer removable encasement 553 surrounding the base foam layer 515 and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a - 551 w.
- the hospital bed mattress 514 may include a peripheral frame extending around and carrying the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a - 551 w .
- the peripheral frame would also be surrounded by the multi-layer removable encasement 553 .
- the base foam layer 515 is constituted similarly to the base foam layer 315 shown in FIGS. 5A-50 .
- the base foam layer 515 illustratively includes opposing first and second ends. The first end is to receive a head of a patient, and the second end is to receive the feet of the patient.
- the base foam layer 515 illustratively includes an upper major surface and a lower major surface opposing the upper major surface.
- the upper major surface comprises a plurality of upper ribs 338 , and a plurality of upper slots 346 .
- the lower major surface comprises a plurality of lower ribs 339 , and a plurality of lower slots 340 .
- the plurality of lower ribs 339 is vertically aligned with the plurality of upper slots 346
- the plurality of lower slots 340 is vertically aligned with the plurality of upper ribs 338 .
- the base foam layer 515 is able to support the patient, and the hospital bed mattress 514 during prolonged power loss and during emergency evacuation of the patient.
- the multi-layer removable encasement 553 is constituted similarly to the uppermost portion of the hospital bed mattress 414 shown in FIG. 6 .
- the multi-layer removable encasement 553 illustratively includes a top coating layer 433 , a spacer layer 434 under the top coating layer, an elastane layer 435 under the spacer layer, and a breathable fabric layer 436 under the elastane layer.
- the multi-layer removable encasement 553 may include a closable opening (e.g. zipper, hook and loop interface) extending along one of the first and second sides, permitting it to be removed and to be fitted over the base foam layer 515 and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a - 551 w.
- the multiple layers 433 - 436 extend around all sides of the multi-layer removable encasement 553 . In other embodiments, on the upper layer includes the multiple layers 433 - 436 .
- the multi-layer removable encasement 553 illustratively includes a plurality of valves 437 fluidly coupled to the pressure source 520 , and each valve of the plurality of valves is configured to open when a patient imparts pressure thereon.
- the plurality of valves can be positioned similarly to the plurality of pressure interjection ports 244 a - 244 h in FIGS. 4A-4B .
- each of the plurality of valves 437 comprises a short slit, i.e. approximately 1.25 inches long, and terminated with rip stop stitching.
- the slit opens permitting airflow. Helpfully, this permits the uppermost areas about the patient to air cooled and dried, reducing the chances of skin injury.
- each transverse bladder pair 551 a - 551 w of the plurality of transverse bladder pairs comprises first and second overlapping bladders 552 a - 552 b .
- Each of the first and second overlapping bladders 552 a - 552 b illustratively includes a triangle-shape.
- overlapping, triangle bladders remove the line of traditional bladder adjustment in alternation inflation and deflation and may allow for gradual deflation to support the prevention of shear injury risk.
- each of the first and second overlapping bladders 552 a - 552 b comprises the inflatable bladders disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,102,270 to Gowda et al., the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
- the method comprises providing a support structure 511 , coupling a pressure source 520 to a controller 519 , and positioning a hospital bed mattress 514 to be carried by the support structure and having first and second ends, and first and second sides extending between the first and second ends.
- the hospital bed mattress 514 includes a base foam layer 515 , and a plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a - 551 w extending over the base foam layer and being coupled to the pressure source 520 .
- the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a - 551 w extends between the first and second sides and configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential and lateral pressure differential.
- the hospital bed mattress 514 includes a multi-layer removable encasement 553 surrounding the base foam layer 515 and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a - 551 w.
- the hospital bed embodiments disclosed herein may reduce the incidence of bed sores/ulcers in the patient. This benefit is derived from the alternating pressure therapy provided by the transverse and longitudinal bladders and the fabric composition of the hospital bed mattress.
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- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
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- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Invalid Beds And Related Equipment (AREA)
- Mattresses And Other Support Structures For Chairs And Beds (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This application is based upon prior filed Provisional Patent Application No. 62/526,457 filed Jun. 29, 2017, the entire subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- The present disclosure relates to the field of hospital equipment, and, more particularly, to a hospital bed and related methods.
- A modern hospital is a complex specialized service provider. Given the nature of the service being provided, the typical modern hospital is stocked with a multitude of medical devices. Although many of these medical devices were developed in the last 50 years, for example, the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, there are some medical devices that have been mainstays in hospitals for well over a century. One such long lived medical device is the hospital bed.
- In their earliest incarnation, hospital beds were largely identical to typical beds, but in the early 1800s, early approaches added adjustable side rails to the beds. Subsequently, wheels were added to the hospital bed to permit easy movement for bedridden patients. In the mid-1900s, the modern three-segment hospital bed became available. This hospital bed was motorized and permitted adjustment of the foot section, midsection, and head section of the bed. Additional features added to hospital beds include bed exit alarms, and a “CPR” mode for administration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
- Another aspect of the hospital bed that has received attention is the hospital bed mattress, also known as a therapeutic mattress or medical mattress. The hospital bed mattress is designed to accommodate the person lying on it and to be able to move with the head, foot and height adjustments of which hospital beds are capable, i.e. it needs to be flexible. Another feature in hospital bed mattresses is bed sore prevention. One approach to this feature is to provide a plurality of air bladders within the hospital bed mattress, which are activated to change pressure points on a patient's skin.
- Generally, a hospital bed may include a support structure, a controller, a pressure source coupled to the controller, and a hospital bed mattress carried by the support structure. The hospital bed mattress is carried by the support structure and has first and second ends, and first and second sides extending between the first and second ends. The hospital bed mattress may comprise a base foam layer, and a plurality of transverse bladder pairs extending over the base foam layer and being coupled to the pressure source. The plurality of transverse bladder pairs may extend between the first and second sides and may be configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential and lateral pressure differential. The hospital bed mattress may comprise a multi-layer removable encasement surrounding the base foam layer and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs.
- In some embodiments, the base foam layer may comprise opposing first and second ends, the first end to receive a head of a patient, the second end to receive feet of the patient. The base foam layer may include an upper major surface and a lower major surface opposing the upper major surface. The upper major surface may comprise a plurality of upper ribs, and a plurality of upper slots. The lower major surface may comprise a plurality of lower ribs, and a plurality of lower slots. The plurality of lower ribs may be vertically aligned with the plurality of upper slots, and the plurality of lower slots may be vertically aligned with the plurality of upper ribs.
- Also, the multi-layer removable encasement may include a top coating layer, a spacer layer under the top coating layer, an elastane layer under the spacer layer, and a breathable fabric layer under the elastane layer. The multi-layer removable encasement may comprise a plurality of valves fluidly coupled to the pressure source, and each valve of the plurality of valves may be configured to open when a patient imparts pressure thereon.
- More specifically, each transverse bladder pair of the plurality of transverse bladder pairs may comprise first and second overlapping bladders. Each of the first and second overlapping bladders may have a triangle-shape. The hospital bed may also further comprise a plurality of handles extending outward from the first and second sides of the hospital bed mattress. The base foam layer may comprise a rigid foam.
- Another aspect is directed to a method of making a hospital bed. The method comprises providing a support structure, coupling a pressure source to a controller, and positioning a hospital bed mattress to be carried by the support structure and having first and second ends, and first and second sides extending between the first and second ends. The hospital bed mattress may include a base foam layer, and a plurality of transverse bladder pairs extending over the base foam layer and being coupled to the pressure source. The plurality of transverse bladder pairs may extend between the first and second sides and configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential and lateral pressure differential. The hospital bed mattress may include a multi-layer removable encasement surrounding the base foam layer and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a hospital bed, according to the present disclosure. -
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the hospital bed along a transverse sectional line, according to the present disclosure. -
FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view of another embodiment of the hospital bed, according to the present disclosure. -
FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams of an example embodiment of the support structure of hospital bed, according to the present disclosure. -
FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of another example embodiment of the support structure of hospital bed, according to the present disclosure. -
FIGS. 5B and 5C are enlarged portions of the support structure of hospital bed fromFIG. 5A . -
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of hospital bed mattress from the hospital bed, according to the present disclosure. -
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of another example embodiment of the hospital bed, according to the present disclosure. -
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a transverse bladder pair from the hospital bed ofFIG. 7 . - The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which several embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. This present disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout, and base 100 reference numerals are used to indicate similar elements in alternative embodiments.
- Referring initially to
FIGS. 1-2 , ahospital bed 10 according to the present disclosure is now described. Thehospital bed 10 illustratively includes asupport structure 11. Thesupport structure 11 illustratively includes abase portion 12, and a plurality of wheels 13 a-13 b coupled to the base portion. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, thesupport structure 11 may adjust positions of the head section, the midsection, and the foot section of thebase portion 12. Also, thesupport structure 11 may adjust the height of thebase portion 12. Thehospital bed 10 illustratively includes a controller 19, a pressure source 20 (e.g. air compressor device) coupled to the controller, and acoolant pump 18 coupled to the controller. - The controller 19 may comprise logic circuitry configured to control the
pressure source 20 and thecoolant pump 18. In other embodiments, thehospital bed 10 includes a control panel (not shown) coupled to the controller 19 and configured to permit user selected activity of thepressure source 20 and thecoolant pump 18. The control panel may include a plurality of switches for manipulating thehospital bed 10. Thehospital bed 10 may also include a wireless transceiver (not shown, e.g. WiFi (IEEE 802.11 variant), Bluetooth, ZigBee (IEEE 802.15.4)) coupled to the controller 19 and configured to permit remote control and/or monitoring of thehospital bed 10. - The
hospital bed 10 illustratively includes ahospital bed mattress 14 carried by thesupport structure 11 and having first and second ends 28, 29, and first andsecond sides hospital bed mattress 14 is configured to receive a patient 21 on an upper surface thereof. Thehospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f coupled to thepressure source 20 and extending between the first and second ends 28, 29 and configured to provide lateral pressure differential. Thehospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes abase foam layer 15 carrying the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f. Thebase foam layer 15 may include a rigid foam. - The
hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a plurality of transverse bladders 23 a-23 c coupled to thepressure source 20 and extending between the first andsecond sides hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a firstmedial layer 16 carrying the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a-23 c. The plurality of transverse bladders 23 a-23 c and the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f are overlapping. - As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f and the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a-23 c are controlled via the controller 19 to prevent bed sore incidence in the
patient 21 and to aid with movement of the patient for repositioning and removal from thehospital bed mattress 14. Thehospital bed mattress 14 includes a plurality of tubes (not shown) coupled between thepressure source 20, and the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f and the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a-23 c. - In some embodiments, the controller 19 is configured to divide the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f into a plurality of sections, and the controller is configured to control each section individually and separately from other sections. Each section may comprise one or more individual bladders. Also, the controller 19 is configured to divide the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a-23 c into a plurality of sections, and the controller is configured to control each section individually and separately from other sections. Advantageously, the controller 19 may be configured to selectively activate sections of the plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f and sections of the plurality of transverse bladders 23 a-23 c to provide alternating pressure therapy to the
patient 21. - The plurality of transverse bladders 23 a-23 c may comprise accordion bellows configured to extend vertically between first and second major surfaces of the
hospital bed mattress 14. In fact, in some embodiments, each transverse bladder 23 a-23 c comprises a set of accordion bellows (i.e. each section here comprises a single accordion bellows) being aligned and extending between the first andsecond sides hospital bed mattress 14. These embodiments more readily impart longitudinal pressure differential to thepatient 21. - Also, the controller 19 is configured to selectively control inflation and deflation of each accordion bellows, and to coordinate deflation of respective accordion bellows above longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f being inflated. This feature insures that the longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f being inflated do not impart too much lateral pressure differential on the
patient 21. - The
hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes a plurality of channels 24 a-24 d coupled to thecoolant pump 18. The plurality of channels 24 a-24 d is adjacent an upper surface of thehospital bed mattress 14 and configured to circulate a coolant fluid. Thehospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes aconvoluted foam layer 17 carrying the plurality of channels 24 a-24 d. - Additionally, each channel 24 a-24 d illustratively includes a rectangle-shaped tube (i.e. a cross-sectional shape). In other embodiments, the plurality of channels 24 a-24 d may have other shapes, such as a circle-shaped tube, or a square-shaped tube.
- Helpfully, the plurality of channels 24 a-24 d may provide for a cooling feature for the
patient 21. In particular, the thermal energy from thepatient 21 is transferred to the coolant fluid and exited thehospital bed mattress 14. - The
coolant pump 18 is configured to recirculate the coolant fluid through the plurality of channels 24 a-24 d, and to exhaust thermal energy removed from thepatient 21. In some embodiments, thecoolant pump 18 may include an active refrigeration element to further reduce the temperature of the coolant fluid as it recirculates. - For example, the coolant fluid may comprise at least one of air and water. In one embodiment, the coolant fluid comprises air, and the
coolant pump 18 may comprise an air pump, which may be integrated with or separate from (as in the illustrated embodiment) thepressure source 20. Thecoolant pump 18 may be coupled to the plurality of channels 24 a-24 d via a plurality of tubes (not shown). - The
hospital bed mattress 14 illustratively includes first and second rails 32 a-32 b configured to retain thepatient 21. Helpfully, the first and second rails 32 a-32 b may prevent accidental falls. In particular, the firm first and second rails 32 a-32 b as part of the design of the foam crib will assist with ingress and egress, and will reduce the falls that can occur with air only surfaces as patients are sitting on the side of the bed for therapy intervention or in preparation for ingress and egress. - Another aspect is directed to a method for making a
hospital bed 10. The method may include providing asupport structure 11, coupling apressure source 20 to a controller 19, and positioning ahospital bed mattress 14 to be carried by the support structure. The hospital bed mattress may have first and second ends 28, 29, and first andsecond sides hospital bed mattress 14 may comprise a plurality of longitudinal bladders 22 a-22 f coupled to thepressure source 20 and extending between the first and second ends 28, 29 and configured to provide lateral pressure differential, a plurality of transverse bladders 23 a-23 c coupled to the pressure source and extending between the first andsecond sides hospital bed mattress 14 and configured to circulate a coolant fluid. - Referring now additionally to
FIG. 3 , another embodiment of the hospital bed 110 is now described. In this embodiment of the hospital bed 110, those elements already discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-2 are incremented by 100 and most require no further discussion herein. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this hospital bed 110 illustratively includes a plurality of handles 126 a-126 b extending outward from the first andsecond sides base foam layer 115, which is rigid in this embodiment. Advantageously, the plurality of handles 126 a-126 b is configured to permit emergency evacuation of the patient, i.e. carrying the patient out on the hospital bed mattress 114 separated from the support structure. - The hospital bed 110 illustratively includes a
cover layer 125, and a secondmedial layer 127 under theconvoluted foam layer 117. Thecover layer 125 comprises material configured to accommodate stretching, heat wicking, low friction, and low shear risk. - Referring now additionally to
FIGS. 4A-4B , another embodiment of the hospital bed 210 is now described. In this embodiment of the hospital bed 210, those elements already discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-3 are incremented by 200 and most require no further discussion herein. - The
support structure 211 illustratively includes a plurality ofpressure interjection ports 244 a-244 h. Each of the plurality ofpressure interjection ports 244 a-244 h is individually fluidly coupled to the pressure source. Each of the plurality ofpressure interjection ports 244 a-244 h illustratively includes acutout 245 comprising a short slit configured to permit coupling to the pressure source. - Referring now additionally to
FIGS. 5A-5C , another embodiment of thebase foam layer 315 is now described. In this embodiment of thebase foam layer 315, those elements already discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-3 are incremented by 300 and most require no further discussion herein. Thesecond end 329 of thebase foam layer 315 illustratively includes a decline, and receives the feet of the patient. Thefirst end 328 is flat and receives the head of the patient. Typically, the heels are a common site for bed sore incidence. Because of the thin layers of tissue, underlying bone prominence, limited blood supply and anatomical design. The decline in the second end may provide an increased load on the calve of the leg so that the decreased load of pressure on the heels may be reduced, thereby reducing incidence of bed sores. - In the illustrated embodiment, the decline is at an angle of 4.1° (illustrative example and can vary ±2°) with respect to a longitudinal axis of the
base foam layer 315, and the internal angle α of 94.1° (illustrative example and can vary ±2°). Thebase foam layer 315 illustratively includes an upper surface, and an opposing lower surface. The upper surface illustratively includes asection 338 comprising a plurality of ribs. Advantageously, thebase foam layer 315 provides a foam “crib” that provides supportive assistance but allows flexibility to align therapy with the function of the supporting frame. This may reduce the risk of injury from entrapment or ejection as the surface increases in distance from the protective rails of the supporting frame. - The lower surface illustratively includes a
section 339 comprising a plurality of ribs 341 a-341 g. Adjacent ribs are divided by a valley delineated by straight opposing sides, terminating at curved end with an angle α between 15°-45° (illustrative example is 20°) and a depth of 1.75-2.25 inches (i.e. about 15-30% of the depth of the base foam layer 315). Thesection 338 on the upper surface is similarly constituted. The curved end may have a radius of 0.20-0.30 inches. Gatching on the bottom of the foam rail surface may support the stability for seat assist (when the bed frame is in the seat assist position), but allow for the flexibility in moving with the frame as needed for the flex of the head of bed adjustment, as well as a contoured profiling frame. - The lower surface illustratively includes a
section 340 comprising a plurality of slots 342 a-342 f. Each of the plurality of slots 342 a-342 f extends transversely between sides of thebase foam layer 315, and extends from the lower surface at a substantially perpendicular angle (i.e. ±15° of 90°). Each of the plurality of slots 342 a-342 f terminates with a circular recess 343 (e.g. having a radius between 0.15 and 0.3 inches) within thebase foam layer 315, and extends vertically between 1.50 and 2.00 inches (i.e. about 15-25% of the depth of the base foam layer 315). The upper surface illustratively includes asection 346 comprising a plurality of slots, which is similarly constituted to thesection 340 on the lower surface. - Referring now additionally to
FIG. 6 , another embodiment of thehospital bed mattress 414 is now described. In this embodiment of thehospital bed mattress 414, those elements already discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-3 are incremented by 400 and most require no further discussion herein. As seen inFIG. 6 , another embodiment of an uppermost portion of thehospital bed mattress 414 is shown. The uppermost portion ofhospital bed mattress 414 illustratively includes (working from the top layer in a downward direction) atop coating layer 433 of breathable material (as available from the Dartex division of Trelleborg Industri AB of Trelleborg, Sweden), a foam orspacer layer 434 of fabric, a lycra (i.e. elastane)layer 435, a valve layer 437 (only 1 depicted for illustrative clarity), and a breathablewaterproof fabric layer 436 with cutouts 445 (only 1 depicted for illustrative clarity) for the pressure interjection ports. It should be appreciated that the uppermost portion ofhospital bed mattress 414 comprises a plurality of valve layers andcutouts 445. Each of the plurality of valve layers 437 is attached to thelycra layer 435, for example, via tacking, stitching or adhesive material. - In some embodiments, the
valve layer 437 is only partial, and comprises a plurality of square shaped cutouts (e.g. 3 inch×3 inch square) positioned over valves. Also, each of thecutouts 445 may comprise a short slit, i.e. approximately 1.25 inches long, and terminated with rip stop stitching. Also, thevalve layer 437 may comprise a low friction material, such as, for example, GlideWear dual layer low friction material, as available from Tamarack Habilitation Technologies, Inc. of St. Paul, Minn. - Referring now additionally to
FIGS. 7-8 , another embodiment of thehospital bed 510 is now described. In this embodiment of thehospital bed 510, those elements already discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-2 are incremented by 500 and most require no further discussion herein. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that thishospital bed 510 illustratively does not include the coolant pump, the plurality of longitudinal bladders, the medial base layer, nor the convoluted foam layer of the embodiments noted above. Nevertheless, it should be appreciated that other embodiments could include these features, and that any of the above described features from the embodiments ofFIGS. 1-6 could be added to the embodiment ofFIGS. 7-8 . - Here, the
hospital bed 510 illustratively includes asupport structure 511, acontroller 519, apressure source 520 coupled to the controller, and ahospital bed mattress 514 carried by the support structure. Thehospital bed mattress 514 is carried by thesupport structure 511. Thehospital bed mattress 514 illustratively includes first and second ends, and first and second sides extending between the first and second ends. Thehospital bed mattress 514 illustratively includes abase foam layer 515, and a plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w extending over the base foam layer and being coupled (e.g. via hoses) to thepressure source 520. The plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w illustratively extends between the first and second sides and is configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential and lateral pressure differential. Thehospital bed mattress 514 illustratively includes a multi-layerremovable encasement 553 surrounding thebase foam layer 515 and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w. - Although not shown, the
hospital bed mattress 514 may include a peripheral frame extending around and carrying the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w. The peripheral frame would also be surrounded by the multi-layerremovable encasement 553. - The
base foam layer 515 is constituted similarly to thebase foam layer 315 shown inFIGS. 5A-50 . Thebase foam layer 515 illustratively includes opposing first and second ends. The first end is to receive a head of a patient, and the second end is to receive the feet of the patient. Thebase foam layer 515 illustratively includes an upper major surface and a lower major surface opposing the upper major surface. The upper major surface comprises a plurality ofupper ribs 338, and a plurality ofupper slots 346. The lower major surface comprises a plurality oflower ribs 339, and a plurality oflower slots 340. The plurality oflower ribs 339 is vertically aligned with the plurality ofupper slots 346, and the plurality oflower slots 340 is vertically aligned with the plurality ofupper ribs 338. Helpfully, thebase foam layer 515 is able to support the patient, and thehospital bed mattress 514 during prolonged power loss and during emergency evacuation of the patient. - The multi-layer
removable encasement 553 is constituted similarly to the uppermost portion of thehospital bed mattress 414 shown inFIG. 6 . The multi-layerremovable encasement 553 illustratively includes atop coating layer 433, aspacer layer 434 under the top coating layer, anelastane layer 435 under the spacer layer, and abreathable fabric layer 436 under the elastane layer. Although not shown, the multi-layerremovable encasement 553 may include a closable opening (e.g. zipper, hook and loop interface) extending along one of the first and second sides, permitting it to be removed and to be fitted over thebase foam layer 515 and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w. - In some embodiments, the multiple layers 433-436 extend around all sides of the multi-layer
removable encasement 553. In other embodiments, on the upper layer includes the multiple layers 433-436. - The multi-layer
removable encasement 553 illustratively includes a plurality ofvalves 437 fluidly coupled to thepressure source 520, and each valve of the plurality of valves is configured to open when a patient imparts pressure thereon. For example, in some embodiments, the plurality of valves can be positioned similarly to the plurality ofpressure interjection ports 244 a-244 h inFIGS. 4A-4B . - Indeed, in some embodiments, each of the plurality of
valves 437 comprises a short slit, i.e. approximately 1.25 inches long, and terminated with rip stop stitching. When the patient applies pressured, the slit opens permitting airflow. Helpfully, this permits the uppermost areas about the patient to air cooled and dried, reducing the chances of skin injury. - In the illustrated embodiment, each
transverse bladder pair 551 a-551 w of the plurality of transverse bladder pairs comprises first and second overlapping bladders 552 a-552 b. Each of the first and second overlapping bladders 552 a-552 b illustratively includes a triangle-shape. Helpfully, overlapping, triangle bladders remove the line of traditional bladder adjustment in alternation inflation and deflation and may allow for gradual deflation to support the prevention of shear injury risk. - Positively, this arrangement permits both longitudinal pressure differential and lateral pressure differential. In particular, the longitudinal pressure differential is generated by selectively inflating different transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w. The transverse pressure differential is generated by selectively inflating only one of the first and second overlapping bladders 552 a-552 b in multiple different transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w. In some embodiments, each of the first and second overlapping bladders 552 a-552 b comprises the inflatable bladders disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,102,270 to Gowda et al., the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
- Another aspect is directed to a method of making a
hospital bed 510. The method comprises providing asupport structure 511, coupling apressure source 520 to acontroller 519, and positioning ahospital bed mattress 514 to be carried by the support structure and having first and second ends, and first and second sides extending between the first and second ends. Thehospital bed mattress 514 includes abase foam layer 515, and a plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w extending over the base foam layer and being coupled to thepressure source 520. The plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w extends between the first and second sides and configured to provide longitudinal pressure differential and lateral pressure differential. Thehospital bed mattress 514 includes a multi-layerremovable encasement 553 surrounding thebase foam layer 515 and the plurality of transverse bladder pairs 551 a-551 w. - Advantageously, the hospital bed embodiments disclosed herein may reduce the incidence of bed sores/ulcers in the patient. This benefit is derived from the alternating pressure therapy provided by the transverse and longitudinal bladders and the fabric composition of the hospital bed mattress.
- Many modifications and other embodiments of the present disclosure will come to the mind of one skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is understood that the present disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (20)
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US16/023,319 US20190000700A1 (en) | 2017-06-29 | 2018-06-29 | Hospital bed with inflatable bladders and cooling channels and related methods |
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US16/023,319 US20190000700A1 (en) | 2017-06-29 | 2018-06-29 | Hospital bed with inflatable bladders and cooling channels and related methods |
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Cited By (4)
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US20180161198A1 (en) * | 2015-07-30 | 2018-06-14 | MAQUET GmbH | Device for heating a patient bearing area of an operating table |
US11071668B1 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2021-07-27 | Encompass Group, Llc. | Hospital bed with inflatable bladders with random inflation and related methods |
WO2024010734A1 (en) * | 2022-07-08 | 2024-01-11 | Stryker Corporation | Patient support apparatus with patient support surfaces therefor |
WO2024089637A1 (en) * | 2022-10-28 | 2024-05-02 | Umano Medical Inc. | Patient support having an inflatable bladder |
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2018
- 2018-06-29 WO PCT/US2018/040285 patent/WO2019006298A1/en unknown
- 2018-06-29 EP EP18743331.3A patent/EP3609452B1/en active Active
- 2018-06-29 US US16/023,319 patent/US20190000700A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2018-06-29 EP EP21201871.7A patent/EP3964187B1/en active Active
- 2018-06-29 ES ES18743331T patent/ES2907856T3/en active Active
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US1731530A (en) * | 1929-10-15 | Chabljs z | ||
US1709995A (en) * | 1926-11-24 | 1929-04-23 | Vaughn D Mulkey | Mattress |
US4230822A (en) * | 1978-10-10 | 1980-10-28 | W. R. Grace & Co. | Flame-retardant polyurethane foams |
US20120255120A1 (en) * | 2011-04-08 | 2012-10-11 | Mattress Safe, Inc. | Adaptable encasements |
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Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20180161198A1 (en) * | 2015-07-30 | 2018-06-14 | MAQUET GmbH | Device for heating a patient bearing area of an operating table |
US11071668B1 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2021-07-27 | Encompass Group, Llc. | Hospital bed with inflatable bladders with random inflation and related methods |
US11717455B2 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2023-08-08 | Encompass Group, Llc. | Hospital bed with inflatable bladders with random inflation and related methods |
WO2024010734A1 (en) * | 2022-07-08 | 2024-01-11 | Stryker Corporation | Patient support apparatus with patient support surfaces therefor |
WO2024089637A1 (en) * | 2022-10-28 | 2024-05-02 | Umano Medical Inc. | Patient support having an inflatable bladder |
Also Published As
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WO2019006298A1 (en) | 2019-01-03 |
EP3964187C0 (en) | 2023-06-07 |
EP3964187A1 (en) | 2022-03-09 |
ES2907856T3 (en) | 2022-04-26 |
EP3609452B1 (en) | 2021-12-01 |
EP3609452A1 (en) | 2020-02-19 |
EP3964187B1 (en) | 2023-06-07 |
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